Harshbarger Statement on the Passing of Dolly Parton

Pigeon Forge, TN — Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) released the following statement today after the death of country music legend and Sevier County native Dolly Parton, who died at age 80.

“Dolly Parton was one of ours,” said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. “She grew up in the hills of Sevier County, right here in Tennessee's First District, and no matter how big her star got, she never stopped being one of us. She built Dollywood into a place that put East Tennessee on the map for the whole world to see, and through her Imagination Library, she put books in the hands of children who needed them most, including so many right here at home. Her music, her generosity, and her love for these mountains will outlast every one of us. Today, East Tennessee is praying for her family and grieving one of our own.”